English 8 Course Syllabus Instructor: Mrs. J. Berry 2013-2014 Email: jaberry@henrico.k12.va.

us Telephone: 804-261-5085

Essential Questions
What makes an effective essay? How do experiences influence perspective? How does reflection of the past improve/impact our world? How does the media influence our culture?

Goals and Objectives

Students will: Master grammar skills, and apply The Writing Process to compositions. Read and write for various purposes. Increase vocabulary and improve spelling Use correct punctuation Participate in Achieve 3000 online instruction

Instructional Resources
Achieve 3000 Online instruction Prentice Hall Literature Book

Henrico County Grading Scale

A = 93-100 B = 85-92 C = 77-84 D = 7076 F = 69 and below

Computations
Tests/Projects Quizzes Classwork Homework Participation Total 40% 20% 20% 10% 10% 100%

*The teacher reserves the right to modify the curriculum and adjust the grading scale in accordance with the needs and abilities of the students. Evaluation is an ongoing process throughout the semester, with some of the methods being quizzes, tests, projects, essays, portfolios, and presentations. No extra credit work will be accepted; however, there will be opportunities for bonus points and recovery grades throughout the semester.

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Student progress will be reported to the student through graded papers, individualized grade sheets, telephone calls, progress reports, conferences, and report cards. Parents are strongly encouraged to check HCPS Link on a weekly basis to monitor the progress of your child.

Homework Policy/Procedure
Homework is an important part of a students education. It reinforces skills taught in class. English homework is assigned several days out of the week and is expected to be turned in on the due date at the beginning of the class period (unless otherwise indicated by teacher).

Late Work
10 points will be deducted from all late assignments. After 3 days, the student will no longer be able to turn in late work. All assignments should be written in an assignment agenda/planner. If a student is absent, it is his/her responsibility to get the make-up assignment the day he/she returns (All objectives and assignments are posted in the classroom.) Each student should select two Study Buddies, in the event of an absence.

Supply List
1 Spiral Notebook 1 1 inch 3 Ring Binder (for Language Arts use ONLY) Loose Leaf Notebook Paper 1 box of Kleenex Blue or Black Ink Pens

Student Expectations
Come to class in an orderly manner Be seated with necessary materials at the sound of the bell Be respectful Be an active learner

Consequences
1st Offense 2nd Offense 3rd Offense Verbal Warning Student/Teacher Conference and Parent Contact Administrative Referral and Parent Contact

Major offenses will receive an immediate referral. *******Conferences are both encouraged and welcomed********

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Homework Assignment #1: Sign and Return this form for your first homework grade. (Form MUST be signed by parent AND student!) I have read and understand the course syllabus. I understand that the teacher reserves the right to adjust any section of the syllabus during the semester to meet the needs and abilities of my child.
____________________________________ Student Name ____________________________________ Student Signature ___________________________________ Parent/Legal Guardian Signature ___________________________________ ___________________________________ Parent Work/Daytime Phone Number ____________________________________ Parent Email _____________ Class Period Date _____________

______________ Date

Parent Email

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